demeanor

Definition

The social, non-verbal behaviors (such as body language and facial expressions) that are characteristic of a person.

Etymology

From Middle English demenure, from the verb Middle English demenen, demeinen (“to handle, manage”), from Old French demener (“to guide, conduct”), from de- + mener (“to conduct, lead”), from Latin *mināre (“to drive”) and minor (“to project or jut forth”).

Example Sentences

• "The man's demeanor made others suspicious of his intentions."
• "A confident demeanor is crucial for persuading others."
• "At this present (saith he) certeine princes of Britaine, procuring by ambassadors and dutifull demeanors the amitie of the emperour Augustus, haue offered in the capitoll vnto the gods presents or gifts, and haue ordeined the whole Ile in a manner to be appertinent, proper, and familiar to the Romans."

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